How will a solar plant benefit the Vatican?

The Pope has given full authority to two special Commissioners to supervise the plant’s construction, ensuring that the project is carried out efficiently and effectively. The energy generated by this solar plant will cover all the Vatican’s energy needs, eliminating dependence on non-renewable energy sources.

Will Vatican City run on solar power?

A letter entitled ‘Brother Sun’ laid out the pontiff’s plans. Pope Francis has renewables on his mind as he says he wants Vatican City to run on solar power. To achieve his aim, solar panels will be installed on a Vatican-owned property outside Rome. The power generated could supply all of Vatican City's energy needs.

Why does the Vatican have a solar system?

The Vatican’s solar shift is a culmination of a political and spiritual mission years in the making. In 2024, the late Pope Francis issued an apostolic letter ordering the construction of an agrivoltaic solar plant to supply the Vatican with energy from Santa Maria di Galeria. On the same site, the new solar infrastructure now stands.

Does the Vatican need a solar plant?

The implementation of a solar plant not only improves the Vatican’s environmental sustainability, but also offers economic and social benefits. By generating its own energy, the Vatican can save on light. This is especially relevant in a context where the price of light is a constant worry for many.

Will Vatican City become a fully solar-powered state in 2025?

By May 29th, 2025, that vision was fulfilled, and the Vatican City became one of the only fully solar-powered states in the world, setting a clear precedent on how belief and sustainability can align.

Will the Vatican build an agrivoltaic system?

The Holy Father has tasked the relevant Vatican governing bodies to collaborate with Italian authorities and build an “agrivoltaic system,” which would use land in Santa Maria di Galeria, an extra-territory of Vatican City situated outside of Rome, for farming and solar energy production.